NPR News Now: May 12, 2025 – Comprehensive Five-Minute Update

Released May 12, 2025

1. Release of American Captive Idan Alexander by Hamas

Host: Dale Willman
Reporter: Daniel Estrin, Tel Aviv

Hamas announced the imminent release of Idan Alexander, a 21-year-old Israeli-American soldier, as part of its efforts to negotiate a ceasefire with Israel. Alexander, who holds dual citizenship, was captured during the Hamas-led attacks on October 7, 2023, and remains the last American citizen believed to be alive in Hamas custody.

In his statement, Hamas mentioned ongoing secret discussions with the U.S. over several days. This release is intended to facilitate the opening of Gaza's border crossings and allow humanitarian aid into the region after more than ten weeks of Israeli blockade.

Notable Quote:
Daniel Estrin reported at [00:32], "Alexander is the last remaining American citizen held by Hamas and Gaza who is believed to still be alive."

This development precedes President Trump's planned visit to the Gulf region to engage with Arab allies.

2. U.S.-China Trade Talks Conclude in Geneva

Host: Dale Willman
Reporter: Willem Marx

Negotiating teams from the United States and China concluded two days of trade talks in Geneva amid ongoing tensions between the world's two largest economies. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Besant highlighted the progress made, stating that the discussions were "productive" and promising further details the following day.

China's Vice Premier for Economic Affairs, Het Lifeng, introduced a new consultation mechanism aimed at continuing dialogue. This initiative seeks to resolve recent trade disruptions caused by tariffs, which have adversely affected businesses and financial markets globally.

Notable Quote:
Scott Besant remarked at [01:36], "We had very productive discussions once they concluded, promising further details Monday."

3. Kurdish Militant Group Disbands Amid Peace Initiative

Host: Dale Willman
Reporter: Kate Bartlett, Johannesburg

The Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), a Kurdish militant organization, announced its decision to disband and disarm as part of a new peace initiative with Turkey. This move follows four years of armed conflict in the region and comes shortly after the PKK held a party congress in northern Iraq.

In a related development, approximately 50 white South Africans are en route to the United States after President Trump granted them refugee status. This decision has sparked criticism from South African officials, who argue that it violates international law definitions of refugees.

Notable Quote:
Vincent Mgwenya, spokesperson for South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, commented at [02:27], "Our sovereignty as a country has been grossly undermined and violated by the United States."

4. U.S. Approves Refugee Status for White South Africans

Host: Dale Willman
Reporter: Kate Bartlett, Johannesburg

President Trump issued an executive order in February inviting Afrikaners, descendants of Dutch colonists in South Africa, to apply for refugee status. Recently, several dozen have been swiftly processed and are scheduled to arrive at Dulles Airport on Monday.

The South African government has expressed strong disapproval, stating that the U.S. actions infringe upon the nation's sovereignty and do not comply with international refugee definitions.

Notable Quote:
Kate Bartlett reported at [02:27], "The South African government is not happy," highlighting the international tension stemming from the U.S. refugee admissions.

5. President Trump to Sign Executive Order on Prescription Drug Prices

Host: Dale Willman

President Trump announced his intention to sign an executive order aimed at reducing prescription drug prices in the United States. In a social media post, he stated, "I want to bring prices for at least some drugs to the level paid by other high-income countries." However, the specifics of how this goal will be achieved remain unclear.

The high cost of prescription medications in the U.S. continues to be a significant concern, with Americans paying more than citizens in other developed nations.

6. Pope Leo XIV Celebrates First Sunday Mass

Host: Dale Willman
Reporter: Andrew Stelzer, Villanova, Pennsylvania

Catholic churches worldwide marked a significant event by celebrating their first Sunday Mass under Pope Leo XIV. In Villanova, Pennsylvania, the event held special meaning for the community, particularly for alumni of Villanova University. Father Jeremy Hiers addressed a full congregation, highlighting a surge in church attendance since Pope Leo's election.

Pope Leo XIV is noted as the first pope from the United States, bringing a sense of pride and representation to American Catholics.

Notable Quote:
Andrew Stelzer reported at [04:21], "Father Jeremy said church attendance has doubled since Pope Leo was chosen."

7. Weekend Box Office Highlights

Host: Dale Willman

The weekend saw a relatively quiet performance in U.S. movie theaters. However, Marvel's "Thunderbolts" succeeded by grossing $33.1 million in its second weekend. Additionally, the vampire-themed film "Sinners" continued its strong performance, adding $21.1 million domestically and surpassing the $200 million mark in four weeks.

For more updates, stay tuned to NPR News Now.